Hey everybody,
Now that Joey is a bit more stable and we are actually able to get a handle on a more predictable and sustainable way to keep everyone updated, here's what we've done.
Thanks to Riley Hospital, we have created an Individualized website just for Joey. It's a great site where so many of us can interact on a regular basis. I (Matt, Joey's Uncle) will still be moderating it and writing the updates for the time being, but this will give us the ability to interact and keep up with Joey's progress more thoroughly. You can even subscribe through e-mail or text.
All of the original posts have been uploaded there in an effort to keep a complete timeline and history from the beginning of Joey's Journey.
You'll still be able to comment, etc. on the updates and eventually this will give Nick and Elizabeth a place to update personally if they choose to in the future. As I mentioned before, for the foreseeable future, I'll still be driving the updates each day.
The web address for Joey's updates is:
http://www.CaringBridge.org/visit/JoeyKeller
Please spread the word to everyone who has been faithfully tracking and praying over this situation from the beginning.
I will have the link to Joey's page on my blog as well, just in case people show up there in the meantime.
Thanks everyone,
Matt Keller
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
My 2nd Thought on Developing Leaders
This coming weekend at NLC, I'm sharing some thoughts on leadership that I've never shared with our church before. In preparation for that, each day this week I'm sharing a quick thought on what I believe about leadership development.
There are alot of things that I could be doing everyday within our organization. But I learned a long time ago, that there are only a precious few things that I can do that will add the greatest amount of value to our organization. And one of those few things is: Growing Leaders. More than e-mail, or busy work, or so many of the daily & urgent things that fight for my attention, here's what I've learned: When I spend time developing a leader, I'm multiplying the effectiveness of our organization.
I make it my aim to help every leader in our organization reach their full potential for who God has created them to be. If I can do that then I believe 2 things happen:
1. Our Organization will become the best that it can be.
2. That Leader will become the best that they can be.
As I see it, it's a Win/Win! The Organization I'm called to lead wins, and the leaders within it win!
Here's Thought #2:
I Strongly believe that one of my Highest Priorities for our Organization is to grow the Leaders on our Team.
There are alot of things that I could be doing everyday within our organization. But I learned a long time ago, that there are only a precious few things that I can do that will add the greatest amount of value to our organization. And one of those few things is: Growing Leaders. More than e-mail, or busy work, or so many of the daily & urgent things that fight for my attention, here's what I've learned: When I spend time developing a leader, I'm multiplying the effectiveness of our organization.
I make it my aim to help every leader in our organization reach their full potential for who God has created them to be. If I can do that then I believe 2 things happen:
1. Our Organization will become the best that it can be.
2. That Leader will become the best that they can be.
As I see it, it's a Win/Win! The Organization I'm called to lead wins, and the leaders within it win!
Monday, November 29, 2010
8:30 Post-Surgery Update for Joey Keller - Monday, Nov. 29th, 2010
Hello everyone,
I just got off the phone with my mom (Jo) and she was excited to give me the evening update. Joey ended up going into surgery at 4:30 pm today and came out around 6:30. The surgery went well and the Doctors seem to be pleased. They have already done another Cat Scan tonight to check on the shunt and make sure everything is looking okay.
They hope to remove the catheter tomorrow, which would be a good thing. The plan is to continue Radiation on the spine as soon as possible in order to keep attacking the tumors on his spine as aggressively as possible.
At this point, they will not be starting Chemotherapy for a few weeks in order for his body to heal from the head wounds from the 2 surgeries. At this point Joey as 3 incisions that we need to believe to heal quickly; 2 on his head and 1 on his abdomen from today.
When the Doctors came in this evening they said that it looked like the surgeries both went very well and they were pleased with the way things looked during the surgery today. After one of the doctors thoroughly examined Joey tonight, I guess he turned to Nick and Elizabeth and said, "He looks really good!" This is great news everybody! We believe in the power of prayer! It's working! Let's keep praying!
The Goal for Tomorrow is to get him out of bed and moving to keep his muscles from atrophying and to get him to eat as many calories as he possibly can. We need to pray that Joey's appetite will come back and that he will regain his strength in his muscles.
Nick and Elizabeth stayed last night with Joey in the room which was a good thing for the 3 of them as a family unti to be together, especially before his surgery today.
Nick and Elizabeth continue to be so thankful for the tremendous outpouring of love from all of you through your comments, prayers and encouragements. They can definitely feel it.
We'll continue to keep all of you posted as to Joey's progress tomorrow.
Thank you for caring and carrying this with us,
Matt Keller
I just got off the phone with my mom (Jo) and she was excited to give me the evening update. Joey ended up going into surgery at 4:30 pm today and came out around 6:30. The surgery went well and the Doctors seem to be pleased. They have already done another Cat Scan tonight to check on the shunt and make sure everything is looking okay.
They hope to remove the catheter tomorrow, which would be a good thing. The plan is to continue Radiation on the spine as soon as possible in order to keep attacking the tumors on his spine as aggressively as possible.
At this point, they will not be starting Chemotherapy for a few weeks in order for his body to heal from the head wounds from the 2 surgeries. At this point Joey as 3 incisions that we need to believe to heal quickly; 2 on his head and 1 on his abdomen from today.
When the Doctors came in this evening they said that it looked like the surgeries both went very well and they were pleased with the way things looked during the surgery today. After one of the doctors thoroughly examined Joey tonight, I guess he turned to Nick and Elizabeth and said, "He looks really good!" This is great news everybody! We believe in the power of prayer! It's working! Let's keep praying!
The Goal for Tomorrow is to get him out of bed and moving to keep his muscles from atrophying and to get him to eat as many calories as he possibly can. We need to pray that Joey's appetite will come back and that he will regain his strength in his muscles.
Nick and Elizabeth stayed last night with Joey in the room which was a good thing for the 3 of them as a family unti to be together, especially before his surgery today.
Nick and Elizabeth continue to be so thankful for the tremendous outpouring of love from all of you through your comments, prayers and encouragements. They can definitely feel it.
We'll continue to keep all of you posted as to Joey's progress tomorrow.
Thank you for caring and carrying this with us,
Matt Keller
Noon Update for Joey Keller - Monday, Nov. 29th, 2010
Just talked to dad (Harold) and he said that Joey is going to be having surgery today at 2 pm to install the shunt from his brain to his stomach. This shunt will relieve the pressure that continues to be building up on Joey's brain and causing him so much discomfort.
The surgery is scheduled for 2 pm and should take a couple of hours.
Please be in prayer that God will give them precision and success as they place this tube in his body.
Thanks everybody,
Matt (Joey's Uncle)
The surgery is scheduled for 2 pm and should take a couple of hours.
Please be in prayer that God will give them precision and success as they place this tube in his body.
Thanks everybody,
Matt (Joey's Uncle)
How I Think about Leadership Development - Part 1
This coming Sunday, December 5th, we finish up our "Get Out" Series and I'm going to be sharing some thoughts on leadership that I've never shared with our church before. The truth is, I love teaching leadership, because I believe the strength of any organization, and particularly, the strength of the local church rests upon leadership.
Therefore, in preparation for this weekend, I want to publish 5 thoughts on How I think about Leadership Development at Next Level Church.
Here is the 1st One:
Therefore, in preparation for this weekend, I want to publish 5 thoughts on How I think about Leadership Development at Next Level Church.
Here is the 1st One:
Thought #1:
I have a Responsibility to Assemble and Build the Best Team I possibly can for this Organization.
The potential and future of our church rests upon the shoulders of the leaders we assemble. There's not a day that goes by, that I'm not keenly aware of that fact. That's why I spend so much of my time learning and growing my own leadership, and stretching and growing the leaders within our organization.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Evening Update for Joey Keller - Sunday Night - 6:30 pm - Nov. 28th, 2010
Hello everybody,
Just talked to my dad (Harold) about the latest on Joey. Joey was eating more today and was generally more hungry than he's been which is a very good thing. Dad said that his color is better and he just seemed a bit more sharp. All good things.
They are still concerned about his legs and atrophy setting in. This is a matter of prayer for us.
The other big prayer concern is centered around the drainage of his brain fluid. Right now they have a shunt in which has been draining the fluid. The long term goal is that the body can absorb this fluid on it's own, which as I understand it, it is not doing or not doing well. The lack of draining is creating the pressure that is giving Joey the headaches and causing him the most pain.
Tomorrow Joey will undergo a Cat Scan for the doctors to make a final decision about the drainage issue. After the Cat Scan, they may need to take Joey into surgery at 2 pm to install a permanent shunt that will drain the excess fluid into his stomach. This could be a long-term answer for the pressure. This surgery would be a 2 hour surgery. We need to pray for wisdom for the Doctors tomorrow morning as they read the results. Pray for peace and wisdom for Nick, Elizabeth and Joey concerning the decision that is best for Joey.
The final big update & announcement is that
Joey is NOT going to be able to see ANY VISITORS for the next few days. Everyone who is local and desiring to visit needs to forgo visiting until further notice.
Please understand that this is nothing personal. Thank you for helping us with this request for the next few days. We will let you know when visitors will be invited again as soon as we know.
Tomorrow is a huge day and we need to pray over this brain fluid issue. Thank you for standing with our family.
Pray for Nick and Elizabeth and strength and peace.
Thank you, all of you,
Matt Keller
Just talked to my dad (Harold) about the latest on Joey. Joey was eating more today and was generally more hungry than he's been which is a very good thing. Dad said that his color is better and he just seemed a bit more sharp. All good things.
They are still concerned about his legs and atrophy setting in. This is a matter of prayer for us.
The other big prayer concern is centered around the drainage of his brain fluid. Right now they have a shunt in which has been draining the fluid. The long term goal is that the body can absorb this fluid on it's own, which as I understand it, it is not doing or not doing well. The lack of draining is creating the pressure that is giving Joey the headaches and causing him the most pain.
Tomorrow Joey will undergo a Cat Scan for the doctors to make a final decision about the drainage issue. After the Cat Scan, they may need to take Joey into surgery at 2 pm to install a permanent shunt that will drain the excess fluid into his stomach. This could be a long-term answer for the pressure. This surgery would be a 2 hour surgery. We need to pray for wisdom for the Doctors tomorrow morning as they read the results. Pray for peace and wisdom for Nick, Elizabeth and Joey concerning the decision that is best for Joey.
The final big update & announcement is that
Joey is NOT going to be able to see ANY VISITORS for the next few days. Everyone who is local and desiring to visit needs to forgo visiting until further notice.
Please understand that this is nothing personal. Thank you for helping us with this request for the next few days. We will let you know when visitors will be invited again as soon as we know.
Tomorrow is a huge day and we need to pray over this brain fluid issue. Thank you for standing with our family.
Pray for Nick and Elizabeth and strength and peace.
Thank you, all of you,
Matt Keller
Saturday, November 27, 2010
10 PM Update for Joey Keller - Saturday Night, November 27th, 2010
I spoke with Nick for about 25 minutes tonight. He and Elizabeth are really tired, but all in all, are managing the intensity of their new reality. They are staying again tonight at the Ronald McDonald House. Dad (Harold) is staying with Joey in the room.
Joey ate alot today, relatively speaking. The hospital is pushing hard a heavy protein diet in preparation for Chemotherapy in the future.
Nick wanted to communicate that we need to keep praying for the pain in Joey's head area. That's really where he's feeling it the most.
Joey did his first round of Physical Therapy today, which he didn't want to do. It wasn't too awfully painful as Nick told it, but it was just cumbersome and overwhelming for a 7 year old who just had major surgery and has had daily doses of radiation for the last 5 days.
A bit of Very Good News today: Joey was able to stand on his right leg which the doctor later said was a very positive thing based on his condition when he entered the hospital a few days ago. Nick has to do physical therapy exercises with Joey during their time together each day, just to keep exercising and working out the muscles in his legs especially, but throughout his body as well.
When Joey is awake, Nick said he is wanting to play legos in a big way. In fact, one of Joey's friends brought him a new lego set today, which got Joey extremely excited.
As we head into Sunday, let's continue to pray for Nick and Elizabeth and strength for their weariness. Continue to pray for Joey's legs and organs. Pray for the tumors on his spine to shrink. And let's continue to pray that the brain fluid drains off the brain like it is supposed to.
Thanks everybody for covering Joey and the family in prayer. You have no idea how encouraging it is to Nick and Elizabeth to know that so many hundreds of you are standing with them in prayer and support.
God bless you,
Matt Keller
Joey ate alot today, relatively speaking. The hospital is pushing hard a heavy protein diet in preparation for Chemotherapy in the future.
Nick wanted to communicate that we need to keep praying for the pain in Joey's head area. That's really where he's feeling it the most.
Joey did his first round of Physical Therapy today, which he didn't want to do. It wasn't too awfully painful as Nick told it, but it was just cumbersome and overwhelming for a 7 year old who just had major surgery and has had daily doses of radiation for the last 5 days.
A bit of Very Good News today: Joey was able to stand on his right leg which the doctor later said was a very positive thing based on his condition when he entered the hospital a few days ago. Nick has to do physical therapy exercises with Joey during their time together each day, just to keep exercising and working out the muscles in his legs especially, but throughout his body as well.
When Joey is awake, Nick said he is wanting to play legos in a big way. In fact, one of Joey's friends brought him a new lego set today, which got Joey extremely excited.
As we head into Sunday, let's continue to pray for Nick and Elizabeth and strength for their weariness. Continue to pray for Joey's legs and organs. Pray for the tumors on his spine to shrink. And let's continue to pray that the brain fluid drains off the brain like it is supposed to.
Thanks everybody for covering Joey and the family in prayer. You have no idea how encouraging it is to Nick and Elizabeth to know that so many hundreds of you are standing with them in prayer and support.
God bless you,
Matt Keller
Noon Update for Joey Keller - Saturday, November 27th, 2010
I heard from dad (Harold) about the update for Joey. He (Harold) stayed in the room last night with Joey and they came in and ran tests at Midnight and 5 am.
Joey was complaining about pain in his legs, so they removed the IV's that were in his legs. So now he only has 1 IV in his arm for Medications and Emergencies which is a good sign.
All Liquids and Nourishment are happening orally now, which is a good sign.
They removed the bandages and head band today. Joey still has the drainage tube in, and they are concerned about the spinal fluid not draining right and not enough. This is a matter of prayer now.
Also, his right leg is still swollen and they are wanting him to keep moving it and exercising it. This is the leg that was giving Joey trouble when they arrived at the hospital last Sunday night. So this too is a matter of prayer.
They are not doing any radiation today or tomorrow to give Joey a break until Monday.
They are wanting Joey to eat as many calories as he possibly can with food, milkshakes and other high calorie items in an effort to add as much as they can before Chemotherapy.
Nick and Elizabeth are really tired right now. We need to pray for supernatural strength for them right now. They are obviously exhausted and need our prayer.
So to recap, we need to pray for 3 things:
1. For Joey's legs.
2. For the drainage issue in the brain fluid.
3. For Nick and Elizabeth for supernatural strength.
Thanks everyone for praying,
Matt
Joey was complaining about pain in his legs, so they removed the IV's that were in his legs. So now he only has 1 IV in his arm for Medications and Emergencies which is a good sign.
All Liquids and Nourishment are happening orally now, which is a good sign.
They removed the bandages and head band today. Joey still has the drainage tube in, and they are concerned about the spinal fluid not draining right and not enough. This is a matter of prayer now.
Also, his right leg is still swollen and they are wanting him to keep moving it and exercising it. This is the leg that was giving Joey trouble when they arrived at the hospital last Sunday night. So this too is a matter of prayer.
They are not doing any radiation today or tomorrow to give Joey a break until Monday.
They are wanting Joey to eat as many calories as he possibly can with food, milkshakes and other high calorie items in an effort to add as much as they can before Chemotherapy.
Nick and Elizabeth are really tired right now. We need to pray for supernatural strength for them right now. They are obviously exhausted and need our prayer.
So to recap, we need to pray for 3 things:
1. For Joey's legs.
2. For the drainage issue in the brain fluid.
3. For Nick and Elizabeth for supernatural strength.
Thanks everyone for praying,
Matt
Friday, November 26, 2010
7:30 pm Update for Joey Keller - Friday, Nov. 26th, 2010
Good news! Joey is out of the ICU which is absolutely huge! They have moved him to the heart center, not the cancer center at this point, because of the Neurological Aspects of his surgery. This will give them the ability to monitor closely all aspects of his case Neurologically.
They are in a private room now that dad (Harold) describes as "Huge." So everyone can be in the room at once. There is a private bed for whomever stays with Joey at night, & it even has a private shower. Dad couldn't say enough about how magnificent and first class everything at Riley Hospital has been! Kudo's to Riley!!!
Today was a slower day with the holiday weekend, other than his daily radiation treatment which he will have again tomorrow morning.
Dad and Nick were able to go out to Nick's house to shower and disconnect for a few minutes, as I understand it, this afternoon.
They are expecting to hear more from the Doctors when they come in tomorrow morning.
Until then, many thanks for praying and believing with us for healing of this cancer.
God bless all of you tonight,
Matt Keller
They are in a private room now that dad (Harold) describes as "Huge." So everyone can be in the room at once. There is a private bed for whomever stays with Joey at night, & it even has a private shower. Dad couldn't say enough about how magnificent and first class everything at Riley Hospital has been! Kudo's to Riley!!!
Today was a slower day with the holiday weekend, other than his daily radiation treatment which he will have again tomorrow morning.
Dad and Nick were able to go out to Nick's house to shower and disconnect for a few minutes, as I understand it, this afternoon.
They are expecting to hear more from the Doctors when they come in tomorrow morning.
Until then, many thanks for praying and believing with us for healing of this cancer.
God bless all of you tonight,
Matt Keller
Noon Update on Joey Keller - Friday, November 26th, 2010
Hey all,
Just got off the phone with dad (Harold) and he said Joey had a great night's sleep, only waking up when they came in to give him his medications at 2 am. Joey didn't need any pain medication all night until 7 am this morning.
It appears that the hospital is wanting Joey to start settling into a routine and begin Physical Therapy on his legs, and other body parts, just to keep things from atrophying.
When the doctor came in this morning and asked Joey about where the pain was, the only place he said was on the back on his head, which is a very good sign. He still has a bit of double vision, but they said it's much better than yesterday and are confident his vision will come back completely soon.
Joey had another round of Radiation this morning at 10 am. They are attacking these tumors on his spine aggressively. We need to continue to pray that they shrink.
Joey's strength is returning. He was able to hold his own glass while drinking his juice this morning. They are also allowing him to move to a full menu for eating today, suplemented by a special boost drink in between meals to further nourish his body.
Finally, they have said that it's time to start stimulating him again, to get his brain working. He's even allowed to watch TV now!
Some of Joey's friends from his homeschool group are coming up to see him now which is good for his spirit and for the stimulation.
As for Nick and Elizabeth, they stayed again at the Ronald McDonald House last night and are able to rest well there. Dad (Harold) stayed in Joey's room.
All in all, it's good to hear all of them settling into a routine. This is amazing forward progress. Thanks to all for your continued prayer and support of Nick and Elizabeth during this time.
God bless you all,
Matt Keller (Nick's brother & Joey's Uncle!!!)
Just got off the phone with dad (Harold) and he said Joey had a great night's sleep, only waking up when they came in to give him his medications at 2 am. Joey didn't need any pain medication all night until 7 am this morning.
It appears that the hospital is wanting Joey to start settling into a routine and begin Physical Therapy on his legs, and other body parts, just to keep things from atrophying.
When the doctor came in this morning and asked Joey about where the pain was, the only place he said was on the back on his head, which is a very good sign. He still has a bit of double vision, but they said it's much better than yesterday and are confident his vision will come back completely soon.
Joey had another round of Radiation this morning at 10 am. They are attacking these tumors on his spine aggressively. We need to continue to pray that they shrink.
Joey's strength is returning. He was able to hold his own glass while drinking his juice this morning. They are also allowing him to move to a full menu for eating today, suplemented by a special boost drink in between meals to further nourish his body.
Finally, they have said that it's time to start stimulating him again, to get his brain working. He's even allowed to watch TV now!
Some of Joey's friends from his homeschool group are coming up to see him now which is good for his spirit and for the stimulation.
As for Nick and Elizabeth, they stayed again at the Ronald McDonald House last night and are able to rest well there. Dad (Harold) stayed in Joey's room.
All in all, it's good to hear all of them settling into a routine. This is amazing forward progress. Thanks to all for your continued prayer and support of Nick and Elizabeth during this time.
God bless you all,
Matt Keller (Nick's brother & Joey's Uncle!!!)
Thursday, November 25, 2010
9:30 PM Update for Joey Keller - Thanksgiving Night, Nov. 25th, 2010
Hey everyone,
I just got off the phone with Nick. You can definitely feel their spirits lifting. They certainly are aware that this is a long battle, and obviously are not out of the woods by a long shot, but all in all they are positive. Nick uploaded a few pictures, but is extremely limited in his ability to get and be online. He definitely wanted to communicate that the best way to stay in contact and updated is through this blog for now. I'm monitoring his Facebook for him at this point still, but the messages, comments, etc. are getting to them. He was blown away by all of your support, love and especially prayer.
We definitely know that it's prayer that is the big key now.
A few positives from today:
A few continuing concerns:
Once again, thanks for all of your kind words, comments, prayers, etc. They are so life-giving and powerful during this difficult season for our family. We hope everyone had a great thanksgiving. Thanks for taking time out of your world to get an update from ours.
Much love from the Kellers
I just got off the phone with Nick. You can definitely feel their spirits lifting. They certainly are aware that this is a long battle, and obviously are not out of the woods by a long shot, but all in all they are positive. Nick uploaded a few pictures, but is extremely limited in his ability to get and be online. He definitely wanted to communicate that the best way to stay in contact and updated is through this blog for now. I'm monitoring his Facebook for him at this point still, but the messages, comments, etc. are getting to them. He was blown away by all of your support, love and especially prayer.
We definitely know that it's prayer that is the big key now.
 | |
| Joey's One & Only smile after coming out of surgery. |
A few positives from today:
- Joey ate Lucky Charms twice and kept most of it down.
- A Breathing Therapist came in and gave Joey Applesauce to watch his swallowing and things are looking good.
- The Breathing Therapist also did some tests to monitor for Pneumonia, which at this point looks clear.
- At this point in the game, the radiation doesn't seem to be having any huge side effects that would bother him right now.
- All in all, today was a slower day and some people from church came by with Turkey and Pie which all the family indicated lifted everyone's spirits. Thanks!
 | |
| Nick said Joey sleeps a lot right now. |
A few continuing concerns:
- The biggest concern right now is his spinal cord. We have to believe for these tumors on his spine to shrink big time. They can effect things like bladder control as well as other organs in the body.
- His eyes aren't tracking too well which is frustrating him alot right now, but the medical professionals are saying this is normal and don't seem to be too concerned at this point.
- As for other details concerning treatment, everything continues to remain day to day.
 | |
| Nick feeding Joey Lucky Charms which is a good sign |
Much love from the Kellers
Noon Update on Joey Keller - Thursday, November 25th, Thanksgiving Day
I spoke with dad (Harold) a few minutes ago and he stayed with Joey last night in his room so Nick and Elizabeth could get a good night's sleep. They stayed at the Ronald McDonald House again and did indeed get a much needed good night's sleep. Dad made mention that the facilities at Riley Hospital are absolutely fantastic, by the way!!!
He said Joey had a good night and is still sleeping alot which is to be expected but when he is awake, he is alert and answering questions and talking a little bit, which is a good thing. He is doing well with moving his legs and making a fist, etc. When asked why he thinks he's in here, Joey said, "I'm here to get rid of the bad stuff in my body."
He had another radiation treatment this morning to continue to aggressively fight the m&m sized cancer spots on his spinal cord. This is huge because this is the cancer that can mess with other organs throughout his body.
They took a fluid sample from his brain today to test it. It is this fluid that passes the cancer down his spinal cord, so we need to pray that this fluid comes back clean.
Joey has been drinking fluids such as apple juice, etc. and when the nurse asked what flavor of juice he wanted Joey responded, "Surprise me." That's Joey isn't it!?! :) Dad actually called back to tell me that Joey just started to eat some Lucky Charms which is good news. We need to pray that they stay down.
They have not received any of the results from the MRI scan yesterday and dad thought they will likely start Chemo next week if his strength returns. At this point, the guess is that he will be moved from ICU to the Cancer Ward on Saturday or Sunday.
_____
Many of you have been asking about Thanksgiving arrangements. Nick and Elizabeth are welcome to have Thanksgiving dinner at 2 pm at the Ronald McDonald House. Dad said the cafeteria is serving Turkey all day and there is also a church in Indy that is bringing in Turkey dinner today as well.
All in all, it sounds like they are in good enough spirits and are beginning to settle into a new reality of the marathon that fighting this cancer is going to be.
We must keep praying that these tumors on Joey's spine will keep shrinking. That is huge right now.
Thanks everyone for praying and checking in.
We will begin trying to post twice a day. Once near the noon hour and once in the evening each day. Emphasis on try. But thanks for continuing to carry the burden with our family and lift them up in prayer. Your comments and messages are huge!
Matt Keller (Joey's Uncle)
He said Joey had a good night and is still sleeping alot which is to be expected but when he is awake, he is alert and answering questions and talking a little bit, which is a good thing. He is doing well with moving his legs and making a fist, etc. When asked why he thinks he's in here, Joey said, "I'm here to get rid of the bad stuff in my body."
He had another radiation treatment this morning to continue to aggressively fight the m&m sized cancer spots on his spinal cord. This is huge because this is the cancer that can mess with other organs throughout his body.
They took a fluid sample from his brain today to test it. It is this fluid that passes the cancer down his spinal cord, so we need to pray that this fluid comes back clean.
Joey has been drinking fluids such as apple juice, etc. and when the nurse asked what flavor of juice he wanted Joey responded, "Surprise me." That's Joey isn't it!?! :) Dad actually called back to tell me that Joey just started to eat some Lucky Charms which is good news. We need to pray that they stay down.
They have not received any of the results from the MRI scan yesterday and dad thought they will likely start Chemo next week if his strength returns. At this point, the guess is that he will be moved from ICU to the Cancer Ward on Saturday or Sunday.
_____
Many of you have been asking about Thanksgiving arrangements. Nick and Elizabeth are welcome to have Thanksgiving dinner at 2 pm at the Ronald McDonald House. Dad said the cafeteria is serving Turkey all day and there is also a church in Indy that is bringing in Turkey dinner today as well.
All in all, it sounds like they are in good enough spirits and are beginning to settle into a new reality of the marathon that fighting this cancer is going to be.
We must keep praying that these tumors on Joey's spine will keep shrinking. That is huge right now.
Thanks everyone for praying and checking in.
We will begin trying to post twice a day. Once near the noon hour and once in the evening each day. Emphasis on try. But thanks for continuing to carry the burden with our family and lift them up in prayer. Your comments and messages are huge!
Matt Keller (Joey's Uncle)
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Update on My Nephew, Joey (8 pm, Wed, Nov. 24, 2010)
After speaking with my Dad, here is the most recent update:
Joey's body is stable from the surgery on the brain tumor. His eyes are re-adjusting and tracking today, which is a good sign. He is still in the ICU and is receiving his nutrients through an IV and his pain is being managed. His legs are moving and it seems that his senses are functioning.
He had another MRI this afternoon, to see how the remaining parts of the tumor in his brain are doing and what the spinal cord looks like.
The largest concern continues to be the small tumors that are on the spinal cord. These tumors are in-operable, so they are treating them with radiation right now. He has had a radiation treatment every day since he was diagnosed (3 days straight). These tumors are the size of M & M's and are putting pressure on his spine and are affecting bodily functions (his bowels in particular).
This needs to be our biggest prayer: That the tumors on his spine would shrink and respond to the radiation quickly.
Joey will start chemotherapy when his body is strong enough to sustain the intensity of chemo. The doctor said that this kind of aggressive cancer has shown to respond well to chemotherapy. After a few more days in the ICU, he will be moved to the cancer ward to continue to fight this fight.
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day. There is a local church in Indianapolis who is bringing Thanksgiving dinners to the families who are in the hospital. I am thankful to God for his people who will be encouraging my family tomorrow, even though we cannot be there.
Thank you for praying.
Joey's body is stable from the surgery on the brain tumor. His eyes are re-adjusting and tracking today, which is a good sign. He is still in the ICU and is receiving his nutrients through an IV and his pain is being managed. His legs are moving and it seems that his senses are functioning.
He had another MRI this afternoon, to see how the remaining parts of the tumor in his brain are doing and what the spinal cord looks like.
The largest concern continues to be the small tumors that are on the spinal cord. These tumors are in-operable, so they are treating them with radiation right now. He has had a radiation treatment every day since he was diagnosed (3 days straight). These tumors are the size of M & M's and are putting pressure on his spine and are affecting bodily functions (his bowels in particular).
This needs to be our biggest prayer: That the tumors on his spine would shrink and respond to the radiation quickly.
Joey will start chemotherapy when his body is strong enough to sustain the intensity of chemo. The doctor said that this kind of aggressive cancer has shown to respond well to chemotherapy. After a few more days in the ICU, he will be moved to the cancer ward to continue to fight this fight.
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day. There is a local church in Indianapolis who is bringing Thanksgiving dinners to the families who are in the hospital. I am thankful to God for his people who will be encouraging my family tomorrow, even though we cannot be there.
Thank you for praying.
Yahoo Group set up for Joey Keller for support, meals, etc.
A friend of Nick and Elizabeth has set up a Yahoo Group so many of you in the Indy area can set up meals, offer assistance for the family etc.
If you want to join go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/FORJOEY/
Thanks Heather Leary for doing this.
Matt Keller
If you want to join go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/FORJOEY/
Thanks Heather Leary for doing this.
Matt Keller
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
10 PM Update for Joey Keller
Hey everyone,
I just talked to dad (Harold) and they were in the car headed back to Nick and Elizabeth's house for the night. He said Nick and Elizabeth are staying at the Ronald McDonald house tonight and will alternate one with Joey in the room and one at the Ronald McDonald House.
The surgeon came in at 9:30 pm tonight and said that Joey is doing well. He was resting well and sleeping which is good. He has 2 IV's and a Drainage Tube which is normal.
Tomorrow another MRI or Cat Scan is scheduled and Joey will probably have another round of Radiation. They will begin to get the plan for how they will proceed in the future tomorrow.
Clearly this is a long road ahead, but today was a big step! Thanks to all who have been praying. Literally hundreds and hundreds of you from across the US and around the world have commented on Facebook, Twitter, Here on the blog or other places as well. I know Nick and Elizabeth appreciate your support more than you'll know.
Continue to pray for them, this is the beginning of a long journey, but we know God is holding them in His hand.
Some of you have asked where to send notes or cards. Here's their home address:
Nick, Elizabeth and Joey Keller
5821 W. Boulder Creek Drive
New Palestine, IN 46163
My wife, Sarah, found a website on medulloblastoma. It will give you a bit more perspective on what Joey's fighting.
http://tiny.cc/7lf1j
We will update as we learn more tomorrow.
Thanks all for your love and care,
The Keller Family
I just talked to dad (Harold) and they were in the car headed back to Nick and Elizabeth's house for the night. He said Nick and Elizabeth are staying at the Ronald McDonald house tonight and will alternate one with Joey in the room and one at the Ronald McDonald House.
The surgeon came in at 9:30 pm tonight and said that Joey is doing well. He was resting well and sleeping which is good. He has 2 IV's and a Drainage Tube which is normal.
Tomorrow another MRI or Cat Scan is scheduled and Joey will probably have another round of Radiation. They will begin to get the plan for how they will proceed in the future tomorrow.
Clearly this is a long road ahead, but today was a big step! Thanks to all who have been praying. Literally hundreds and hundreds of you from across the US and around the world have commented on Facebook, Twitter, Here on the blog or other places as well. I know Nick and Elizabeth appreciate your support more than you'll know.
Continue to pray for them, this is the beginning of a long journey, but we know God is holding them in His hand.
Some of you have asked where to send notes or cards. Here's their home address:
Nick, Elizabeth and Joey Keller
5821 W. Boulder Creek Drive
New Palestine, IN 46163
My wife, Sarah, found a website on medulloblastoma. It will give you a bit more perspective on what Joey's fighting.
http://tiny.cc/7lf1j
We will update as we learn more tomorrow.
Thanks all for your love and care,
The Keller Family
5 PM Update on Joey Keller
I just got a message from Nick updating us on Joey.
After a long day of surgery, Nick said Joey made it through very well. They got 98% of the tumor on the brain. The Doctor felt really good about it, Nick said.
Joey's tumor is called a "Medulloblastoma" which is a rapidly growing form of cancer, but that type of cancer also responds very well to Chemotherapy so that too is a good sign.
Nick said that when Joey woke up, the nurses told him that he was alert and wanting to talk and even asked, "Is it over?" Which again, we're taking as a good sign.
All in all, Nick and Elizabeth are feeling good about it and in Nick's words, "I think we've got a statistical fighting chance on this one."
They are anxious to see Joey and be with him obviously and will report later tonight.
Thanks you all for praying. Let's keep praying for recovery and for the radiation treatments to keep working on the spinal cord.
Thanks,
Matt Keller
After a long day of surgery, Nick said Joey made it through very well. They got 98% of the tumor on the brain. The Doctor felt really good about it, Nick said.
Joey's tumor is called a "Medulloblastoma" which is a rapidly growing form of cancer, but that type of cancer also responds very well to Chemotherapy so that too is a good sign.
Nick said that when Joey woke up, the nurses told him that he was alert and wanting to talk and even asked, "Is it over?" Which again, we're taking as a good sign.
All in all, Nick and Elizabeth are feeling good about it and in Nick's words, "I think we've got a statistical fighting chance on this one."
They are anxious to see Joey and be with him obviously and will report later tonight.
Thanks you all for praying. Let's keep praying for recovery and for the radiation treatments to keep working on the spinal cord.
Thanks,
Matt Keller
3:30 pm Update on Joey Keller's Surgery
As many of you have been tracking throughout the last 36 hours, my 7 year old Nephew, Joey, in Indianapolis has been in surgery most of the day to remove a brain tumor on the base of his brain.
I just spoke with my dad (Harold) and he said that they are still closing up in the surgery and that, "They got most of it." And that the remainder will be treated with Radiation and Chemo. They never did have to do any blood transfusions which again, I think is good news.
I don't have a ton more to share. I know alot of friends from Nick and Elizabeth's church have been up most of the day which is helping, as well as mom and dad & Greg and Roberta Phillips (Elizabeth's parents).
Let's pray for a safe completion to the surgery. I'll update you when I have more information.
Thanks for praying,
Matt Keller
I just spoke with my dad (Harold) and he said that they are still closing up in the surgery and that, "They got most of it." And that the remainder will be treated with Radiation and Chemo. They never did have to do any blood transfusions which again, I think is good news.
I don't have a ton more to share. I know alot of friends from Nick and Elizabeth's church have been up most of the day which is helping, as well as mom and dad & Greg and Roberta Phillips (Elizabeth's parents).
Let's pray for a safe completion to the surgery. I'll update you when I have more information.
Thanks for praying,
Matt Keller
11:30 am Update for Joey Keller
Hey everyone,
I just got off the phone with my dad (Harold) and the latest on Joey is:
- The surgery is going well.
- They have removed the "specimen" or the mass and already sent it off to be analyzed to determine the type of cancer it is.
- There have no blood transfusions which is a good thing.
- All his vital signs are strong.
- & they are ahead of schedule.
All in all, dad seemed positive that this was a good report. The surgery probably has another couple of hours to go, so keep praying everybody.
I also talked personally to Nick a couple of hours ago and he just wanted me to communicate to all of you how much he can feel your support and appreciates your prayers for Joey and he and Elizabeth.
Keep praying,
Matt Keller (Joey's Uncle)
I just got off the phone with my dad (Harold) and the latest on Joey is:
- The surgery is going well.
- They have removed the "specimen" or the mass and already sent it off to be analyzed to determine the type of cancer it is.
- There have no blood transfusions which is a good thing.
- All his vital signs are strong.
- & they are ahead of schedule.
All in all, dad seemed positive that this was a good report. The surgery probably has another couple of hours to go, so keep praying everybody.
I also talked personally to Nick a couple of hours ago and he just wanted me to communicate to all of you how much he can feel your support and appreciates your prayers for Joey and he and Elizabeth.
Keep praying,
Matt Keller (Joey's Uncle)
Update on My Nephew, Joey (6 am, Tue, Nov. 23rd, 2010)
Here is the latest on my nephew Joey, as I understand it. The facts are as right as I know them to be at this moment. I'll keep updating throughout the day. Thanks for praying for him everybody.
For the last month or so, my 7 year old nephew, Joey, who lives in Indianapolis, has been having severe headaches & back aches, which has led to throwing up, weight loss, etc. Even after several trips to the Emergency Room, his condition continued to go down hill.
On Sunday night, November 21st, he took a turn for the worst and was taken to the ER yet again. After running a CAT Scan or MRI on his brain, they discovered that he has a tumor on his brain about 4 centimeters in diameter. They immediately took him to Riley Children's Hospital in downtown Indy where he could be treated.
Monday morning, after more complete testing, they discovered that in addition to the tumor, there were pieces speckled down his spine, so as I understand it, they began radiation last night because the pieces on the spine are inoperable.
The surgery for the brain tumor is scheduled for this morning, Tuesday, November 23rd, at 7:30 am Eastern Time. Please pray for God's healing & precision for the surgeons. Pray the tumor is contained and can be removed efficiently.
Pray for my brother, Nick & his wife Elizabeth during this time as well. They are surrounded by my parents, Elizabeth's parents and friends from their church in Indianapolis.
Again, these are the details as I have them, please have everyone you can be praying for this situation.
Feel free to forward this to anyone who will pray...
Thank you,
Matt Keller
For the last month or so, my 7 year old nephew, Joey, who lives in Indianapolis, has been having severe headaches & back aches, which has led to throwing up, weight loss, etc. Even after several trips to the Emergency Room, his condition continued to go down hill.
On Sunday night, November 21st, he took a turn for the worst and was taken to the ER yet again. After running a CAT Scan or MRI on his brain, they discovered that he has a tumor on his brain about 4 centimeters in diameter. They immediately took him to Riley Children's Hospital in downtown Indy where he could be treated.
Monday morning, after more complete testing, they discovered that in addition to the tumor, there were pieces speckled down his spine, so as I understand it, they began radiation last night because the pieces on the spine are inoperable.
The surgery for the brain tumor is scheduled for this morning, Tuesday, November 23rd, at 7:30 am Eastern Time. Please pray for God's healing & precision for the surgeons. Pray the tumor is contained and can be removed efficiently.
Pray for my brother, Nick & his wife Elizabeth during this time as well. They are surrounded by my parents, Elizabeth's parents and friends from their church in Indianapolis.
Again, these are the details as I have them, please have everyone you can be praying for this situation.
Feel free to forward this to anyone who will pray...
Thank you,
Matt Keller
Friday, November 19, 2010
I can't believe I get to do this!
Sunday, October 24th, was baptism Sunday at Next Level Church! Twice a year, we spend the last 25 minutes at the end of each of our weekend services baptizing anyone who has put their faith in Christ. It is seriously one of the most moving and exhilarating moments of my year.
We set up a 12 foot, 1400 gallon swimming pool outside of our auditorium and then run a live camera feed inside to the projectors in the auditorium. We have 2 of our pastors in the pool baptizing people and a live host who is moderating outside and interviewing different people as they come through!
Our worship pastor and I are on stage engaging the screens and leading the environment inside while everyone in the auditorium is watching the baptisms happening live on the screens. The time is a mixture of singing, praying, celebrating and hearing the stories of life-change.
We provide everything people need to be baptized including: shorts, t-shirts, underwear, towels, makeup remover, even sports bras and hairdryers.
People can sign up prior to the day or we give people the ability to get up at the end of the message and be baptized "spontaneously!" Today we had 19 sign up before and 51 respond in the moment!!! It is always incredible to see people climb out of their seats and go change and get in line! Just Awesome!!!
In the Previous two times we've done this, we baptized 43 & 46 but today was over the top with 70!!! To watch fathers and mothers baptizing their kids and each other is just unreal!!!
This is why we set up & tear down church for 1000 people every week! So people can have a chance to be changed by the love of Jesus Christ! This is why we pray and sacrifice and give and do everything we do all year long.
So I just want to say thank you to you, Next Level Church, today is for you. Lives were changed for eternity because of you! This victory of 70 baptisms is all for you! You guys are changing eternities! Way to go NLC, I'm so proud to be a part of a movement like this!
I love being your pastor,
Matt Keller
To watch the baptisms, click here. To see some pictures from the baptisms, go to www.FaceBook.com/NLCFortMyers
www.NextLevelChurch.com/video
We set up a 12 foot, 1400 gallon swimming pool outside of our auditorium and then run a live camera feed inside to the projectors in the auditorium. We have 2 of our pastors in the pool baptizing people and a live host who is moderating outside and interviewing different people as they come through!
Our worship pastor and I are on stage engaging the screens and leading the environment inside while everyone in the auditorium is watching the baptisms happening live on the screens. The time is a mixture of singing, praying, celebrating and hearing the stories of life-change.
We provide everything people need to be baptized including: shorts, t-shirts, underwear, towels, makeup remover, even sports bras and hairdryers.
People can sign up prior to the day or we give people the ability to get up at the end of the message and be baptized "spontaneously!" Today we had 19 sign up before and 51 respond in the moment!!! It is always incredible to see people climb out of their seats and go change and get in line! Just Awesome!!!
In the Previous two times we've done this, we baptized 43 & 46 but today was over the top with 70!!! To watch fathers and mothers baptizing their kids and each other is just unreal!!!
This is truly the Super Bowl for Next Level Church!
This is why we set up & tear down church for 1000 people every week! So people can have a chance to be changed by the love of Jesus Christ! This is why we pray and sacrifice and give and do everything we do all year long.
So I just want to say thank you to you, Next Level Church, today is for you. Lives were changed for eternity because of you! This victory of 70 baptisms is all for you! You guys are changing eternities! Way to go NLC, I'm so proud to be a part of a movement like this!
I love being your pastor,
Matt Keller
To watch the baptisms, click here. To see some pictures from the baptisms, go to www.FaceBook.com/NLCFortMyers
www.NextLevelChurch.com/video
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Make It Amazing Book Released!!!
6 years ago, my friend (& our Executive Pastor) Scott Drummond challenged my wife & I with some amazing principles for our marriage. It was a risky move on his part, but it was one of a few things that happened that gave Sarah & I permission to believe God for more in our marriage. Now, 6 years later, Sarah & I have something that we believe few marriages ever experience.
For the next few years, I encouraged Scott to write the principles down, because I believed he was saying things that I had never heard any other Christian leader say about marriage. Well... after a few years, he finally did!!!
And here it is! The premiere of Scott's book: Make It Amazing!
I highly recommend that every married couple get this book. In fact, here are a few suggestions that I think every pastor and church should consider doing:
This book is a Must-Read for every married couple! Period.
For the next few years, I encouraged Scott to write the principles down, because I believed he was saying things that I had never heard any other Christian leader say about marriage. Well... after a few years, he finally did!!!
And here it is! The premiere of Scott's book: Make It Amazing!
Buy the Book:
The Book Blog:
e-book:
I highly recommend that every married couple get this book. In fact, here are a few suggestions that I think every pastor and church should consider doing:
- Launching several small groups on marriage using this book as the curriculum.
- Launching a 4 part series on marriage next year using the concepts of this book as the content
- Bringing in Scott (better yet, Scott & his wife Kirsten) for a Marriage weekend and have them stay as a guest speaker for Sunday as well!
- Give a copy of this book to every Pre-Marital Couple that goes through your church
This book is a Must-Read for every married couple! Period.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Access Granted Weekend was Amazing!
One of my favorite weekends of the year is our Access Granted weekend. Existing pastors and their wives come in for 48 hours to learn, stretch, relax and grow at Next Level Church. This weekend we hosted 7 couples from across the US. 2 pastors from Oklahoma, 2 pastors from Jacksonville, FL, Lebanon, IN, McKinney, TX, & Lexington, KY.
Here's Sarah & I with the Frasiers, from Indiana, & the Rains from Oklahoma!
In addition to working, we wanted to spoil them & bless them, because we understand how hard and thankless the adventure of church planting can be. We were able to watch the sunset from downtown Fort Myers & even enjoyed a little candlelight dancing under the stars during dessert!
All of the pastors were able to see a Sunday morning at Next Level Church from start to finish. One of the highlights is getting to see our set-up crews do what I believe they do best in the world, which is mobile church!
One of the great joys of the weekend for me is introducing the pastors from the stage at NLC in both of our services. I love letting our church people see the impact that we're making not just here in Southwest Florida, but in so many other cities as well! It never fails that people in our church know friends or family members in their cities that they want to recommend to them! (We're committed to doing anything we can to help grow their churches!!!)
The weekend concluded Sunday night with our "Italian Themed" Dinner experience, a lively Q & A about the culture they experienced earlier in the day at NLC, & then some closing thoughts from my heart to them.
At NLC, we love hosting & pouring into pastors & their wives! I am so proud of the dozens of people it took to make this weekend happen. I believe these churches will never be the same!
Thanks, NLC for being a church that's committed to not just doing our thing, but investing in other churches across the country as well!
I love getting to do what I do,
Matt
Monday, November 8, 2010
6 Tools I Use to Remember Names
There's no magic pill that we can take to remember everyone's name, but there are a few tactics I've learned over the years that help me to remember people's names. Here ya go...
1. See Them.
I am a visual learner, so seeing a name helps me remember it more often. For years we had nametags at Next Level Church and the reason why, was because it helped me (and others) remember people's names. Now, I try to picture people's names in my mind. If you can see it, it will help you remember it.
From time to time, I'll even write their name down on a napkin or a sheet of paper. For example, if I'm teaching in a team setting with 8 to 12 leaders at a table, I'll ask the pastor to introduce each person and what they do on the team, then I'll jot their name down, because it helps me remember it. And as we talked about on Friday, repeating someone's name later in the meeting or conversation adds "wow factor."
2. Say Them.
When someone is introduced to me, I try to say their name in conversation back to them as quickly as I can. Example: "Matt, this is Jim." I'll immediately repeat it. "Jim? It's great to meet you Jim." Then if I can, and it's not awkward or weird, I'll try and use their name in the next 30 seconds to 1 minute of conversation. "...you know, I've found the same thing, Jim..." And when leaving their presence I'll say their name one more time. "It was great to meet you Jim..."
Saying a name helps lock it into your short term memory.
3. Repeat Them.
This is similar to #2, Say Them, except it puts the person's name in a future context. Staying with the example from above, if I walked away from Jim. I would try to say to my friend who introduced us, "Jim seems like a great guy." Repeating a name after the interaction, helps lock it in further.
4. Associate Them.
The ultimate goal with a name is that it becomes linked to something greater than just their name or their face. Some people will talk about creating some cute memory game like, "Jim is Slim..." I've never been able to do that very well in real time, because my creative juices get going while I'm standing there talking to them, so instead of listening and making a real connection, I'm busy trying to think up a rhyming game or something cute to associate their name with.
I'd rather associate their name to something real. Like what they do for a living, who their spouse is, their kid's names or activities, or a similar passion or hobby we share, or they enjoy. It just feels more genuine than, "Jim is slim." Especially if he's not.
5. Place Them.
Often, for me it's literally on a map. I'm such a visual learner that, for example, when I meet a pastor or leader and find out what city they're in, I can see it on this huge map of the United States I have in my office. Then, my mind usually goes to what Major League Baseball team is near them! But it helps me place them.
For others, I'll try and place them in the surroundings we're in, if I want to remember their name beyond just the meeting or the day I'm spending with them. For example, if I met Jim at a party at Dave and Barbara's house, then I'd try and place him in my mind in their living room, or beside their pool. If I can see him somewhere, I can connect him to what the event was about and am more likely to see him there in my mind in the future.
6. Nickname Them.
This is kind of a funny one, but for me it's totally real. Everyone I like, I nickname. Once I get comfortable with someone, I find myself morphing their name into a nickname. And I tell them that their nickname will morph over time, but that's only because I like them.
I have found that giving people a nickname makes them feel special. After all, if you have a nickname for them, then you must be pretty close, right? I love nicknaming people. And I love watching how the nickname morphs over time. And I think the people I nickname enjoy it too. If nothing else, it gives us something in common to laugh and talk about.
The bottom line is this: Names matter. More than we'd like to admit. As leaders, we have to refuse to make excuses and do the hard work of engaging people's names. It's always worth it.
Matt
1. See Them.
I am a visual learner, so seeing a name helps me remember it more often. For years we had nametags at Next Level Church and the reason why, was because it helped me (and others) remember people's names. Now, I try to picture people's names in my mind. If you can see it, it will help you remember it.
From time to time, I'll even write their name down on a napkin or a sheet of paper. For example, if I'm teaching in a team setting with 8 to 12 leaders at a table, I'll ask the pastor to introduce each person and what they do on the team, then I'll jot their name down, because it helps me remember it. And as we talked about on Friday, repeating someone's name later in the meeting or conversation adds "wow factor."
2. Say Them.
When someone is introduced to me, I try to say their name in conversation back to them as quickly as I can. Example: "Matt, this is Jim." I'll immediately repeat it. "Jim? It's great to meet you Jim." Then if I can, and it's not awkward or weird, I'll try and use their name in the next 30 seconds to 1 minute of conversation. "...you know, I've found the same thing, Jim..." And when leaving their presence I'll say their name one more time. "It was great to meet you Jim..."
Saying a name helps lock it into your short term memory.
3. Repeat Them.
This is similar to #2, Say Them, except it puts the person's name in a future context. Staying with the example from above, if I walked away from Jim. I would try to say to my friend who introduced us, "Jim seems like a great guy." Repeating a name after the interaction, helps lock it in further.
4. Associate Them.
The ultimate goal with a name is that it becomes linked to something greater than just their name or their face. Some people will talk about creating some cute memory game like, "Jim is Slim..." I've never been able to do that very well in real time, because my creative juices get going while I'm standing there talking to them, so instead of listening and making a real connection, I'm busy trying to think up a rhyming game or something cute to associate their name with.
I'd rather associate their name to something real. Like what they do for a living, who their spouse is, their kid's names or activities, or a similar passion or hobby we share, or they enjoy. It just feels more genuine than, "Jim is slim." Especially if he's not.
5. Place Them.
Often, for me it's literally on a map. I'm such a visual learner that, for example, when I meet a pastor or leader and find out what city they're in, I can see it on this huge map of the United States I have in my office. Then, my mind usually goes to what Major League Baseball team is near them! But it helps me place them.
For others, I'll try and place them in the surroundings we're in, if I want to remember their name beyond just the meeting or the day I'm spending with them. For example, if I met Jim at a party at Dave and Barbara's house, then I'd try and place him in my mind in their living room, or beside their pool. If I can see him somewhere, I can connect him to what the event was about and am more likely to see him there in my mind in the future.
6. Nickname Them.
This is kind of a funny one, but for me it's totally real. Everyone I like, I nickname. Once I get comfortable with someone, I find myself morphing their name into a nickname. And I tell them that their nickname will morph over time, but that's only because I like them.
I have found that giving people a nickname makes them feel special. After all, if you have a nickname for them, then you must be pretty close, right? I love nicknaming people. And I love watching how the nickname morphs over time. And I think the people I nickname enjoy it too. If nothing else, it gives us something in common to laugh and talk about.
The bottom line is this: Names matter. More than we'd like to admit. As leaders, we have to refuse to make excuses and do the hard work of engaging people's names. It's always worth it.
Matt
Friday, November 5, 2010
How I Work at Remembering Names
Yesterday I told the story of how a guy named Kulani, in Hawaii, changed my perspective on remembering people's names. I'm not perfect at it, by any stretch, but I have learned several things over the past 10 years that I use regularly in remembering people's names.
1. I Really Believe that People's Names Matter.
There is a special connection that happens when you say someone's name. It's personal. It's who they are. And when we, especially in leadership, know someone's name it means alot to them. I really beleive that. Knowing people's names make them feel special. It's a WOW Factor.
2. I Work at It.
I don't take no for an answer. I don't make excuses, I'm a public figure who influences people and it's important for me to know as many people's names as I can. Of course, now that there are over a thousand people in our church, it gets pretty tough, but whenever I can, I do. I don't just say, "Well, there's so many people so why bother..." I force myself to work at it.
3. If I get it wrong, I own it.
Most of the time, people just admire you for trying. Anymore, I've found that most people don't expect me to remember their names. And I even throw out that disclaimer when I am introduced to someone. I say, "I will do my best to remember your name..." Most of the time, most people are pretty understanding. And when they're not, and they act put-off, I just let it go. I'd rather remember 5 people's names and make them feel special, and forget the 1, then not try at all.
4. I'm better with certain groups of people then with others.
I'm not sure if I'm just more engaged with certain groups of people or what, but I find that not all names are created equal. For example, I have found that I'm very attentive to pastors or church planter's names, but not as good with the other parents on the bleachers at the Little League park.
5. I have found that the #1 key to remembering someone's name is:
If I share a moment with someone, or we have something in common, it's much easier to remember their name. If we are at the same event or go to the same connection group and then see each other at a restaurant later, I'm more prone to remember their name.
At the end of the day, it's a whole lot more motivation than information and it's about realizing that there are no magic pills, it takes effort, energy and practice. But in the end, I've found it's always worth it.
Monday, I'll give the 6 Tactics I use to help me remember people's names.
1. I Really Believe that People's Names Matter.
There is a special connection that happens when you say someone's name. It's personal. It's who they are. And when we, especially in leadership, know someone's name it means alot to them. I really beleive that. Knowing people's names make them feel special. It's a WOW Factor.
2. I Work at It.
I don't take no for an answer. I don't make excuses, I'm a public figure who influences people and it's important for me to know as many people's names as I can. Of course, now that there are over a thousand people in our church, it gets pretty tough, but whenever I can, I do. I don't just say, "Well, there's so many people so why bother..." I force myself to work at it.
3. If I get it wrong, I own it.
Most of the time, people just admire you for trying. Anymore, I've found that most people don't expect me to remember their names. And I even throw out that disclaimer when I am introduced to someone. I say, "I will do my best to remember your name..." Most of the time, most people are pretty understanding. And when they're not, and they act put-off, I just let it go. I'd rather remember 5 people's names and make them feel special, and forget the 1, then not try at all.
4. I'm better with certain groups of people then with others.
I'm not sure if I'm just more engaged with certain groups of people or what, but I find that not all names are created equal. For example, I have found that I'm very attentive to pastors or church planter's names, but not as good with the other parents on the bleachers at the Little League park.
5. I have found that the #1 key to remembering someone's name is:
Having a Significant, Shared Experience.
If I share a moment with someone, or we have something in common, it's much easier to remember their name. If we are at the same event or go to the same connection group and then see each other at a restaurant later, I'm more prone to remember their name.
At the end of the day, it's a whole lot more motivation than information and it's about realizing that there are no magic pills, it takes effort, energy and practice. But in the end, I've found it's always worth it.
Monday, I'll give the 6 Tactics I use to help me remember people's names.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
How 1 night in Hawaii Changed my Ministry Forever
In the year 2000, my parents took our entire family to Hawaii for their 30th wedding anniversary. On one of the nights, we made reservations for one of those Luau / All-Inclusive entertainment night things. The plan was for the Luau Company to pick us up at our hotel around 4 pm, I think, and return us to the hotel at around 1 am, after a full night of partying of course.
I've never been the party type (aka, I don't drink) but I do love a good party, but the thing that has stayed with me the most from that night wasn't the Hawaiian Culture or the food or the party atmosphere, it was our Bus Host, Kulani.
When we got on the bus at the hotel, Kulani greeted each of us, asked us our name and where we were from. At the time, we were living in Indiana, so we responded, "Matt and Sarah Keller, from Indiana." A few minutes later, he walked down the aisle of the bus handing out some sort of note card for us to indicate if we were having the beef or chicken and as he came through the aisle, he started looking at each of the 60 passengers and remembered about 1/3 of their names.
For the next hour he told jokes, made us laugh and tried to get us to ignore the rather ugly industrial park surroundings we were headed toward where this Luau was being held. When we reached the party and began exiting the bus, he stood at the steps and wished each of us a great night and then called us by name. All 60 of us... by name.
For the next 5 or 6 hours, hundreds of people partied like they weren't going to be sick in the morning and then at around midnight, we were all instructed to reload our buses for the ride home. As we approached our bus, Kulani greeted us by saying, "Matt and Sarah Keller from Indiana, how was your night?" Needless to say I was blown away.
For another full hour, he did stand up comedy and kept us entertained and then, one last time as we reached our hotel and exited the bus, Kulani called all 60 of us by name, from memory and thanked us for participating in the event.
That night forever changed me... here's why:
Up until that night in Hawaii, I always used to say, "I'm just not very good with names..." I would see church people, or other pastors and would easily forget their name and just blow it off under the guise of, "I'm just not good with names."
But that night, when Kulani was able to remember the names of 60 drunk people who he would never see again in his life and call each of us by name, it changed me.
So for the last 10 years, I've worked hard at developing the skill and attention to remember people's names. I'm not perfect at it, but I've developed enough of a skill that occasionally someone will ask me how I remember so many people's names.
So, tomorrow, I want to share with you some of the secrets I've learned to remembering people's names.
If Kulani in Hawaii can do it, so can we... no, so must we.
I've never been the party type (aka, I don't drink) but I do love a good party, but the thing that has stayed with me the most from that night wasn't the Hawaiian Culture or the food or the party atmosphere, it was our Bus Host, Kulani.
When we got on the bus at the hotel, Kulani greeted each of us, asked us our name and where we were from. At the time, we were living in Indiana, so we responded, "Matt and Sarah Keller, from Indiana." A few minutes later, he walked down the aisle of the bus handing out some sort of note card for us to indicate if we were having the beef or chicken and as he came through the aisle, he started looking at each of the 60 passengers and remembered about 1/3 of their names.
For the next hour he told jokes, made us laugh and tried to get us to ignore the rather ugly industrial park surroundings we were headed toward where this Luau was being held. When we reached the party and began exiting the bus, he stood at the steps and wished each of us a great night and then called us by name. All 60 of us... by name.
For the next 5 or 6 hours, hundreds of people partied like they weren't going to be sick in the morning and then at around midnight, we were all instructed to reload our buses for the ride home. As we approached our bus, Kulani greeted us by saying, "Matt and Sarah Keller from Indiana, how was your night?" Needless to say I was blown away.
For another full hour, he did stand up comedy and kept us entertained and then, one last time as we reached our hotel and exited the bus, Kulani called all 60 of us by name, from memory and thanked us for participating in the event.
That night forever changed me... here's why:
Up until that night in Hawaii, I always used to say, "I'm just not very good with names..." I would see church people, or other pastors and would easily forget their name and just blow it off under the guise of, "I'm just not good with names."
But that night, when Kulani was able to remember the names of 60 drunk people who he would never see again in his life and call each of us by name, it changed me.
If this guy can do this for drunk people, night after night, can't I do this for God's Sons and Daughters?
Don't they deserve for me to at least try harder to remember their name than I have been?
So for the last 10 years, I've worked hard at developing the skill and attention to remember people's names. I'm not perfect at it, but I've developed enough of a skill that occasionally someone will ask me how I remember so many people's names.
So, tomorrow, I want to share with you some of the secrets I've learned to remembering people's names.
If Kulani in Hawaii can do it, so can we... no, so must we.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
A Prophetic Word for our Relationships
This weekend at Next Level Church, we're concluding our "The Big Game" series. For 6 weeks, we've been talking about how we win at our relationships. In part 1, I introduced a concept that has been sparking quite a bit of buzz:
I would love to hear your thoughts on this.
Click here to listen or watch the message or go to www.NextLevelChurch.com/videowww.nextlevelchurch.com/video.
You can also download the podcast on iTunes, by searching for Next Level Church.
I believe this idea could be a prophetic word for our relationships. If we'll not run, but we'll commit and grow, imagine what is possible!?!
Question: Who do you need to have a hard conversation with? A Parent? A Spouse? A Co-Worker? The Boss? A Teacher? What's stopping you?
Conflict in our relationships is the #1 tool God uses to shape us into His image.
I would love to hear your thoughts on this.
Click here to listen or watch the message or go to www.NextLevelChurch.com/videowww.nextlevelchurch.com/video.
You can also download the podcast on iTunes, by searching for Next Level Church.
I believe this idea could be a prophetic word for our relationships. If we'll not run, but we'll commit and grow, imagine what is possible!?!
Question: Who do you need to have a hard conversation with? A Parent? A Spouse? A Co-Worker? The Boss? A Teacher? What's stopping you?
